Cheesy Beef And Tomato Casserole
A comforting casserole with savory ground beef, creamy Velveeta, tomato sauce, and al dente pasta—rich, cheesy, and satisfying for family dinners or potlucks.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the ground beef in a skillet, adding the diced onion toward the end.
- Drain excess fat from the skillet.
- In a separate pot, heat the tomato sauce and diced Velveeta over low heat until the cheese is melted.
- Combine the beef mixture, the sauce‑cheese mixture, and the cooked noodles in a casserole dish, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder if desired.
- Cover loosely with foil or a lid.
- Bake at 325°F for about 30 to 45 minutes, until heated through and bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a teaspoon of Italian seasoning or a splash of Worcestershire sauce to the ground beef while cooking. If you're out of Velveeta, you can substitute with a combination of cream cheese and shredded cheddar for a creamier texture. To save time, use pre-cooked pasta or leftover macaroni from a previous meal, like in a Macaroni Meat Dish.
Serving Suggestions
This Cheesy Beef and Tomato Casserole is delicious on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. Consider serving it alongside roasted vegetables for added nutrition. For a fun twist, top with crushed tortilla chips or crispy fried onions before serving, giving it an extra crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 20 minutes, covered with foil to retain moisture. Alternatively, you can microwave individual portions for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Cheesy Beef And Tomato Casserole contains roughly 301 calories, with 12g protein, 19g carbohydrates, and 19g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1410mg per serving (61% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use ground turkey instead of beef?
Yes, ground turkey can be used as a healthier alternative to beef. Just be aware that it may have a milder flavor, so consider adding extra seasonings to enhance the dish, such as garlic powder, onion powder, or Italian herbs.
What can I do if I don't have tomato sauce?
If you don't have tomato sauce, you can use diced tomatoes or crushed tomatoes instead. For a richer flavor, simmer them with a bit of olive oil, garlic, and onions. Alternatively, use canned spaghetti sauce or even a jar of pizza sauce for a different taste.
Can I freeze the casserole?
Yes, you can freeze the casserole before baking. Just assemble it in a freezer-safe dish, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to bake, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if needed.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).